Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail is a common condition where the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. It can occur on any toe, but it most commonly affects the big toe.

Symptoms

• Pain along the edges of the toenail
• Redness and swelling around the toenail
• Warmth or tenderness to the touch
• Pus or discharge from the affected area
• Foul odor from the affected area
• Thickening of the skin around the toenail
• Increased sensitivity to pressure or touch

Causes and Risk Factors

Ingrown toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Improper trimming of the toenails, such as cutting them too short or at an angle
• Wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes
• Genetic predisposition to curved or thick toenails
• Abnormal gait or walking patterns that put pressure on the toes
• Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, which can cause the toenail to thicken and become more prone to ingrowth
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing or jamming it

Treatments

Treatment for ingrown toenails depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can be treated with home remedies and self-care measures, while more severe cases may require medical attention.

• Soaking the foot in warm water several times a day to reduce pain and swelling
• Applying topical antibiotics to prevent infection
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage pain and inflammation
• Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting shoes that do not put pressure on the toes
• Trimming the toenail straight across and avoiding cutting it too short
• Using a pumice stone or file to gently smooth out the edges of the toenail
• Applying a topical cream or ointment, such as urea or salicylic acid, to help soften the skin and nail

Medical Treatments

In more severe cases, medical treatment may be necessary. This can include:

• Lifting the edge of the toenail and placing a small piece of cotton or gauze under it to help the nail grow out properly
• Removing part or all of the toenail to prevent further ingrowth and promote healing
• Prescribing oral antibiotics to treat infection
• Using a laser or other surgical procedure to remove the affected portion of the toenail
• Performing a partial nail avulsion, which involves removing part of the toenail and applying a chemical to prevent regrowth

Prevention

To prevent ingrown toenails, it is recommended to:

• Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting shoes that do not put pressure on the toes
• Keep the feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections
• Avoid sharing personal care items, such as nail clippers or files, to prevent the spread of infection
• Wear socks made of breathable materials, such as cotton or wool, to help keep the feet dry